Elementary School Programs

Osborn Preserve Tours

Take your 3-5 graders on an educational outing at the Fairfield Osborn Preserve. The curriculum includes a 4-hour hike into the heart of the Preserve, a teacher’s packet, and a pre-trip classroom visit to assist students with field trip readiness. Activities incorporate Next Generation Science Standards.

The Fairfield Osborn Preserve has hosted environmental education programs for children in Sonoma County since the 1970's. We offer some of the smallest group sizes of any outdoor environmental education program, giving each child a better opportunity to learn from the natural world. Our naturalists are trained in natural history, state content standards, research and management, and environmental education.

Who Can Participate - Grades 3, 4 and 5 only

Lottery Sign Up - Due to high demand, teachers must submit an on-line reservation request. Successful applicants are chosen by lottery in September and February. 

Fees - A fee of $3 per student is payable on the day of the trip. Adults are not charged. Title 1 schools may request fee waivers.

Additional Information - We ask that teachers not apply together unless they must share a bus. No more than 60 students can be accommodated on a single field trip. Teachers must be present both during the classroom visit and on the trail the day of the field trip. Parent chaperons are required at a ratio of 1 adult per hiking group and no more. Groups should plan to arrive at the Preserve at 9:45 am and depart at 2 pm (Earlier departures can be arranged if required by school or bus schedules).

Contact - Center Education Manager, Suzanne DeCoursey